Goodpasture Syndrome

Goodpasture syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by damage to the lungs and kidneys. Described by the American pathologist E. W. Goodpasture in 1919.

In this syndrome, destruction of the basement membranes of the alveoli and glomeruli of the kidneys occurs due to the formation of autoantibodies to one of the components of the basement membranes - type IV collagen. This leads to the development of diffuse pulmonary bleeding and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis with nephrotic syndrome.

Clinically, the disease is manifested by cough with the release of foamy bloody sputum, shortness of breath, fever, and acute renal failure.

Diagnosis is based on the detection of characteristic changes in the lungs and kidneys, as well as on the detection of autoantibodies in the blood.

Treatment includes plasma exchange, immunosuppressive therapy, and hemodialysis. The prognosis is serious, mortality reaches 90% without treatment. Timely initiation of therapy increases the chances of recovery.

Goodpasture syndrome is a rare and potentially fatal disease that causes inflammation of the lungs and kidneys. It is named after the American pathologist Edward Goodpasture, who first described the syndrome in the 1950s.

Goodpasture syndrome is characterized by the formation of antibodies to antigens that are found on the surface of lung and kidney cells. These antibodies cause inflammation and damage to these organs, which can lead to respiratory failure and kidney failure.

The main symptom of Goodpasture syndrome is a cough, which may be accompanied by shortness of breath and hemoptysis. Chest pain, fever, and fatigue may also occur. In addition, patients with Goodpasture syndrome may experience changes in blood tests, such as increased creatinine and urea levels.

Treatment for Goodpasture syndrome includes the use of immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine or cyclophosphamide, as well as the use of corticosteroids. In some cases, a kidney or lung transplant may be required.

The prognosis for patients with Goodpasture syndrome depends on the severity of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment. In general, with timely initiation of treatment and compliance with the doctor’s recommendations, long-term remission and improved quality of life can be achieved.